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Events in December 2022
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December 25, 2022
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December 3, 2022
“A Christmas Story: The Musical”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company.
Every Thurs.–Sun., Nov. 25–Dec. 18. Dan Cooney directs this local professional theater company in the 2007 musical version of the 1983 movie comedy about a boy living in 1940s Indiana who longs for a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Music and lyrics by U-M alumni songwriting team Pasek and Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, La La Land). Book by Joseph Robinette. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore Maas Mainstage, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $54 (seniors & youth under 18, $52) in advance at theencoretheatre.org and at the door. $20 student rush tickets (if available) an hour before showtime. 268–6200.
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“A Christmas Story: The Musical”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company.
Every Thurs.–Sun., Nov. 25–Dec. 18. Dan Cooney directs this local professional theater company in the 2007 musical version of the 1983 movie comedy about a boy living in 1940s Indiana who longs for a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Music and lyrics by the songwriting team of U-M alumni Pasek and Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, La La Land). Book by Joseph Robinette. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore Maas Mainstage, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $54 (seniors & youth under 18, $52) in advance at theencoretheatre.org and at the door. $20 student rush tickets (if available) an hour before showtime. 268–6200.
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“Christmas at the Mansion”: Dexter Area Historical Society.
Dec. 2–4, 10, 17, & 28. Seasonal events at lavishly decorated Gordon Hall, the 19th-century mansion built by Dexter founder Judge Samuel Dexter. Dec. 2: A fundraiser (6:30 p.m.) for the museum featuring hearty hors d’oeuvres, spirits, and desserts and a look at the Christmas Vintage Collection, Milt Campbell’s huge assemblage of Department 56 collectible holiday houses, buildings, and figures that were once traditionally seen in the windows of Huron Camera in downtown Dexter throughout the holiday season. Dec. 3: Santa (9 a.m.–3 p.m.) is on hand to talk with kids, who also can make their own gingerbread house to take home. Dec. 4: Christmas Tea (1 & 4 p.m.), a light lunch with tea sandwiches and desserts. Also, the museum hosts an open house ($5 per adult) to view the Christmas Vintage Collection, 6–8 p.m. on Dec. 10, 17, & 28. Various, Gordon Hall, 8311 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. $75 on Fri., $5 on Sat., $30 on Sun.; reservations required for Fri. and Sun. by calling 395–4106.
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“Pickleball”: Purple Rose Theatre Company.
Every Wed.–Sun., Sept. 30–Dec. 23. Rhiannon Ragland directs the world premiere of actor-playwright (and Purple Rose founder) Jeff Daniels’ comedy about America’s fastest growing sport. Four below-average players try to overcome their own limitations to achieve greatness in a game that has nothing to do with pickles. Cast: Ryan Carlson, Kate Thomsen, Lynch Travis, Jonathan West, and Caitlin Cavannaugh. 3 p.m. (Wed., Thurs., & Sat.), 8 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). Purple Rose Theatre, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $34–$52 in advance at PurpleRoseTheatre.org and by phone, and (if available) at the door. Discounts available for students, seniors, teachers, military personnel, and groups. 433–7673.
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“War in Ukraine”: Ann Arbor Coalition Against the War.
Dec. 1–3. Talk by Scott Ritter, the UN chief weapons inspector in Iraq, 1991-1998. He decried the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq and believes the war in Ukraine is a dangerous proxy war. 6:30 p.m. (Dec. 1), Cottage Inn, 512 E William; 6 p.m. (Dec. 2), Journey of Faith Church, 1900 Manchester; & noon (Dec. 3), AADL Downtown. AnnArborCoalitionAgainstTheWar@proton.me.
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Holiday Bazaars in Dexter.
Sales of homemade treats, produce, used books, and crafts by various Dexter organizations. The Dexter Heritage Guild (9 a.m.–3 p.m., Dexter Area Historical Museum, 3443 Inverness) offers handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, winter apparel, baked treats & canned goods. Also, raffles of a quilt and local gift cards. Proceeds benefit the museum. Dexter Area Girl Scouts (9 a.m.–2 p.m., St. Joseph Parish Center, 3430 Dover St.) sell scout-made arts & crafts and Girl Scouts nuts and candy to benefit the scouts. The Dexter District Library (9 a.m.–3 p.m., 3255 Alpine St.) offers used books, DVDs, book bags, etc. to benefit the library. Various times and locations, Dexter. Free admission.
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Magic: The Gathering: Sylvan Factory.
Every Fri., Sat., & Mon.–Wed. All invited to play various forms of the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering. Fri. 6:30–10 p.m.: Magic rotating draft, cost varies. Sat. noon–3 p.m.: Intro to Magic: The Gathering, free. Sat. 6–10 p.m.: Commander Pods, casual groups of 4 players, free. Mon. 6:30–10 p.m.: Power Cards, $10. Tues. 6–9 p.m.: MTG Pauper, a fun and fast format for all skill levels, $5. Wed. 5–8 p.m.: Casual Commander, the most popular form of the game, free. Prizes paid in store credit. Various times. Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. info@sylvanfactory.com, 929–5877.
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Santa: Briarwood Mall.
Daily Nov. 23–Dec. 24 (Mon.–Sat. noon–8 p.m. & Sun. noon–6 p.m.). All kids invited to sit with Santa; photos available for purchase. Dec. 11 is “Pet Photo Night” (6–8 p.m.) for 4-legged, leashed, friendly pets that weigh less than 60 lbs. A session for kids with special needs is held before the mall opens on Dec. 4, 9–10:30 a.m. Note: Santa takes breaks 3–4 p.m. Briarwood Von Maur court. Appointments encouraged at simon.com/santa. 769–9610.
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“Annual Dr. Porter Synchronized Skating Classic”: Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club.
Dec. 2–4. The nation’s largest synchronized skating competition, featuring over 200 teams of all levels from across the U.S. 5:30–7:30 p.m. (Fri.), 8 a.m.–9 p.m. (Sat.), & 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sun.), Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr. 1-day pass: $15 (students & seniors, $10). Weekend pass: $25. 213–6768.
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Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet.
Every Sat. & Tues. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different Fleet Feet (formerly Running Fit) locations. Rain or shine. 6 p.m. (Tues.), 123 E. Liberty & 8 a.m. (Sat.), 5700 Jackson Rd. Free. 769–5016 (Tues.) & 929–9022 (Sat.).
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EVENT MOVED TO DEC. 17. “Winter Birding”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission.
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN MOVED TO DEC. 17.
WCPARC naturalist Kelsey Dehring leads a hike in search of visiting and resident winter birds. No experience necessary. Bring binoculars. 8–10 a.m., DeVine Preserve, 6110 W. Liberty Rd. Free. Preregistration (limited to 12) required by emailing dehringk@washtenaw.org.
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“Christmas in the Village”: Manchester Chamber of Commerce.
Downtown Manchester bustles with holiday activities, including craft shows and artisan markets, a luncheon with Santa, carriage rides, blacksmith demonstration, chili cookoff, a candy hide and seek for kids, cocktail crawl for adults, and more. Festivities kick off on Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. with a parade that brings Santa down Main St. to the mill where he lights the Christmas tree and greets children. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., downtown Manchester. Free admission. 476–4565.
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Ann Arbor Holiday Art Fair.
Dec. 3 & 4. Over 75 artists offer everything from jewelry, paintings, and ceramics to hand-knit clothing and leather goods. Also, some 20 local authors sell signed copies of their books, and specialty food vendors offer a variety of homemade hot sauces, jams, sweets, and more. Concessions. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sat.) & 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sun.), Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. Admission $5 (kids age 12 & under, free). 429–3145.
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Annual Holiday Sale: Kiwanis Center.
Every Fri. & Sat. Dec. 2–23. Sale of used seasonal gifts and decorations, sporting goods, kitchen items, collectables, books, jewelry, office supplies, furniture, and more. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Fri.) & 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sat.), Kiwanis Center West, 100 N. Staebler. Free admission. 368–9738.
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Christmas Cookie Market & Holiday Bazaar: St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Market with cookies by the pound and assorted vendor tables. 9 a.m.–2 p.m., St. Joseph Parish Center, 3430 Dover, Dexter. Free admission. 426–8483.
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parkrun USA.
Every Sat. All invited to join a timed 5-km run/walk. 9 a.m., Lillie Park South, 4365 Platt. Free, but first-timers are requested to preregister at parkrun.US/lillie. lillie@parkrun.com.
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“Climate Change”: Washtenaw County Democratic Party Monthly Meeting.
Zoom business meeting, followed by a discussion of science and public policy by American Meteorological Society associate executive director Paul Higgins, an Ann Arbor native. Also, a panel discussion of the Michigan November election. 9:30 a.m.–noon, via Zoom. For URL see washtenawdems.org/calendar. Free.
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Annual Meeting: Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association.
Talks, via Zoom, on the theme of “accelerating the transition to renewable energy” by various speakers TBA. Keynote address by Stanford University engineering professor Mark Jacobson, who has developed plans for how each state, including Michigan, can generate all the electricity it needs from renewable sources. 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m., online at 2glrea.org. Preregistration required. $25. (313) 655-7945, JFreeman13@comcast.net.
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THIS EVENT CANCELLED DUE TO ILLNESS - “Duck Walk at Ford Lake”: Washtenaw Audubon Society/Ypsilanti District Library.
WAS member Victor Chen leads an all-ages walk to look for migratory and resident waterfowl. Dress warmly and bring binoculars and a scope, if you have them. 9:30–11:30 a.m., meet at the parking lot, 526 Grove St., Ypsilanti. Free. washtenawaudubon.org/events.
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“Advent Happening Arts & Crafts”: First Presbyterian Church.
All ages invited to decorate cookies and make gifts, cards, and ornaments. 10 a.m.–noon, First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw. Free. 662–4466.
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“Christmas Crèche Exhibit”: Holy Faith Episcopal Church/ELCA Lutheran Church.
Dec. 2 & 3. Indoor display of more than 300 nativities from around the world. Cookies & activities for kids. Live music at various times TBA includes piano duets by Joy Morin and Susan Holtzer, the Horizon string duo, the Dexter Community Orchestra Dexter Brass Quintet, the Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic, the First Presbyterian Church of Saline bell choir, the Third Street Band, and more. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Holy Faith Church, 6299 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd., Saline. Free. 429–2991.
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“Christmas on the Farm”: Waterloo Farm Museum.
Dec. 3 & 4. This German immigrant pioneer homestead comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of a rural 1880s Michigan Christmas as costumed guides lead tours of the 2-story brick farmhouse, 1840s log house, and outbuildings (with a blacksmith at work at the forge). Also, lace and other fiber craft demonstrations, sales of holiday greens and baked goods, and a “Christmas Market” with handcrafted gifts. Reading of The Night Before Christmas on Sun. only at an afternoon time TBA. Carolers and live music. Concessions. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Waterloo Farm Museum, 13493 Waterloo-Munith Rd., Grass Lake. $5 admission (seniors, $4; kids ages 5–12, $2; age 4 & under & members, free). (517) 596–2254.
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“Weaving with Natural Materials”: U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens.
Dec. 3 (10 a.m.–noon). Kids ages 5–11, accompanied by an adult, invited to learn about plants used for weaving, and to weave their own grapevine wreath to take home. Matthaei, 1800 N. Dixboro. $8 per child (accompanying adult, free); metered parking. Preregistration required at bit.ly/dec3weave-matthaei or 647–7600.
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10th Annual Holiday Sale: Huron Valley Woodturners.
Dec. 3 & 4. Ten local woodturners show and sell their bowls, pens, vases, ornaments, as well as paintings and notecards. Also, demos. Coffee & cookies. Partial proceeds benefit the Webster Historical Society and the Virtual Dialysis Support Center. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sat.) & 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sun.), Crossroads Community Center, 5501 Webster Church Rd., Dexter. Free admission. eperry@umich.edu.
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Art & Craft Sale: Zal Gaz Grotto.
Art & craft market featuring work by local artists, including art, apparel, jewelry, hats, purses, etc. Door prizes. 10 a.m.–3 p.m., 2070 W. Stadium Blvd. CDC Covid guidelines followed. 548–3993.
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Winter Sale: Ann Arbor Potters Guild.
Dec. 3 & 4. Popular annual sale held in a heated tent outdoors. Large selection of functional and decorative ceramics by local artists. Includes a kids’ area with gifts priced for kid-sized budgets. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Potters Guild Studio, 201 Hill. Free admission. 663–4970.
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“Dancing Babies”: AADL Downtown.
Dec. 3 (10:30–11:15 a.m.) & 18 (1–1:45 p.m.). Infants ages 5 & under (accompanied by an adult) invited to a program of music and movement.
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Chime Concert: Kerrytown Market & Shops.
Every Fri., Sat., & Wed. All invited to play one of 200 songs, with melodies transcribed in numbers, on the 17-bell chime’s numbered keys. Ambitious players can add chords. Kids welcome. Noon–12:30 p.m. (Fri. & Wed.) & 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.). Kerrytown Market. Free. ofGlobal@aol.com.
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“Only a Day”: Spinning Dot Theatre.
Jenny Koppera directs local actors in German children’s writer Martin Baltscheit’s 2015 short play, a blend of music, movement, and humor about a fox and a wild boar who cannot bring themselves to tell their mayfly friend that her life lasts only a single day. 11 a.m.–noon, Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker, Ypsilanti. Free. 482–4110.
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"Fireside story time and holiday sing along": Mary Berry's Gardening's Winter Market
Join us at our new winter market for a cozy story time and sing-along to get in the holiday spirit around the campfire! There will be plenty of festive photo opportunities as well.
Coffee, cocoa, and DJ's Donuts will be served and donations will the Huron Valley Humane Society.
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Annual Croissant Concert: Kerrytown Concert House.
A popular holiday tradition featuring Today’s Brass Quintet, an ensemble of area professional musicians that performs pop, classical, and holiday tunes. With trumpeters Derek Lockhart and Ross Turner, tuba player Joseph DeMarsh, trombonist Brian Robson, and French horn player Alan Taplin. Take-home croissants & coffee. 11 a.m., KCH, 415 N. Fourth Ave. Livestream also available. Tickets $29–$50 (students, $19) in advance at kerrytownconcerthouse.com and (if available) at the door. Reservations recommended. 769–2999.
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Holiday Artist Market: The Guild of Artists & Artisans.
Every Tues.–Sat., Nov. 25–Dec. 22. Juried show & sale of works in various media and styles by over 50 area artists. Featuring jewelry, functional and decorative ceramics, small and large paintings, prints, fiber art, wood carvings, and more. Also, every Fri. & Sat., artist trunk shows. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., The Gutman Gallery, 118 N. Fourth Ave. Free admission. 662–3382.
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Scientist Spotlight: U-M Museum of Natural History.
All invited to visit with U-M scientists and engage in hands-on activities to learn about their research. 11 a.m.–2 p.m., MNH, 1105 North University. Free. 764–0478.
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Ninja Obstacle Course for Kids: Keith Hafner's Karate
Ann Arbor Parents: Join us for an exciting, FREE Ninja Obstacle Course for Kids on Saturday, December 3rd, from 11:30 to 12:00! Open to 4-8 year olds. Includes age appropriate training in agility and body balance!
Sign up here (It's FREE!): https://member-site.net/VIP/default.aspx?FE--bJPMXb
214 S. Main ,Ann Arbor. https://member-site.net/VIP/default.aspx?FE--bJPMXb Free. khafner@provide.net www.karateisgoodforyou.com 734-994-0333.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“Pokémon Hangout”: Sylvan Factory.
Every Sat. All invited to play the smart phone game Pokémon Go. Noon–3 p.m., Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. Free. info@sylvanfactory.com, 929–5877.
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“The Magic Flute”: Fathom Events.
Fathom Events. 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $11.50–$12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomevents.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter), & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), different times.
Dec. 3. Rebroadcast of the Metropolitan Opera’s 2006 production of Mozart’s beloved “opera fantaisie.” At once a love story, a whimsical comedy, and an adventure filled with sinister deceptions, The Magic Flute is above all an unsurpassed celebration, by turns jubilant and unsettlingly haunting, of the power of music. 12:55 p.m.
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“Cool Chemistry”: WCC Super STEAM Saturday.
WCC chemistry professors Tracy and Eric Schwab lead a hands-on session showing students how to build molecular models of everyday chemicals. Along the way, the group also solves some mysteries, like how coin counterfeiting is done. Geared towards middle school students, but everyone welcome. 1–2 p.m, WCC Crane Liberal Arts Bldg., rm. LA 314, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Preregistration required at bit.ly/wccsteam. Free.
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“Creature Encounters”: The Creature Conservancy.
Every Sat. & Sun. through Dec. 18. Conservancy staffers show off some animals native to Eurasia, including a reindeer, a wolf hybrid, and a shire horse (2 & 4 p.m.). Also, a zookeeper talk with a Burmese python (3 p.m.) and a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 1–5 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $13 (kids ages 2–12, $11; under age 2, free) at the door; $1 discount for advance purchase at thecreatureconservancy.org. 929–9324.
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“Creature Encounters”: The Creature Conservancy.
Every Sat. & Sun. Conservancy staffers show off some animals native to Eurasia, including a reindeer, a wolf hybrid, and a shire horse. Also, a zookeeper talk with a Burmese python (3 p.m.) and a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals, including sloths, muntjacs, and more. 1–5 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $13 (kids ages 2–12, $11; under age 2, free) at the door; $1 discount for advance purchase at thecreatureconservancy.org. 929–9324.
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EVENT MOVED TO DEC. 17. “Winter Wander”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission.
EVENT MOVED TO DEC. 17
Hike led by WCPARC naturalist Kelsey Dehring through a forested frozen wonderland to observe local trees, wildlife, and hopefully animal tracks. 1–3 p.m., Scio Woods Preserve, 4000 Scio Church. Free. Preregistration (limited to 12) required by emailing dehringk@washtenaw.org.
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T-Shirt Yarn Necklaces: Ann Arbor District Library.
Adults and kids ages 9 & up invited to finger weave a necklace out of a t-shirt and decorate with beads. Materials provided. 1 p.m., AADL Westgate, 2503 Jackson. Free. 327–4200.
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Volunteer Stewardship Workday: Ann Arbor Natural Area Preservation Division.
Dec. 3 & 4, 10 & 11. All invited to help maintain natural areas in one of 4 city parks. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes; tools, snacks, & know-how provided. The primary goal for each of these days is to remove invasive shrubs, unless otherwise noted. Minors must be accompanied by an adult or obtain a release form in advance. 1–4 p.m., Bandemer Park, Bird Hills, Hannah Nature Area, & Braun Nature Area. Check online at bit.ly/A2NAPworkday or call 794–6627. Free.
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“Detroit Kids Discover Holocaust Secrets and Family Survivors”: Ann Arbor District Library Fifth Avenue Press Author Event.
Local writer Pauline Loewenhardt discusses her 2020 memoir about growing up in a German American community in WWII-era Detroit and her search later in life for Jewish relatives on both sides of the Atlantic. 2–3 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free. 327–4200.
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“Read and Look”: U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology.
Dec. 3 (2–3 p.m.): Reading of Julie Appel and Amy Guglielmo’s children’s book Tickle Tut’s Toes, followed by the chance for kids ages 4–7 (accompanied by an adult) to explore the museum’s collection to find items pictured in the book. Kelsey Museum, 434 S. State. Free. 764–9304.
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“Spring Awakening”: U-M In the Round Productions.
Dec. 2–4. Jack Rosenberg directs this new U-M student ensemble in its debut production, Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater’s Tony-winning 2007 rock musical. A brutally honest depiction of teen angst, rebellion, and budding sexual passion, it’s adapted from Frank Wedekind’s 1891 drama about a group of German adolescents whose sexual awakening is warped and thwarted by bourgeois adult society. One of the seminal works of modern theater, Wedekind’s play was banned as pornographic and not produced in full until the 1960s. 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat & Sun.), U-M Walgreen Drama Center Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin, North Campus. Tickets $10 (students, $6) at the Michigan League Box Office (muto.umich.edu) & at the door. 763–8587.
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Annual Champagne Tasting: York Food & Drink.
AHD Vintners (Warren) representative Mike Francisco guides participants though 5 grower champagnes. 2–4 p.m. $25/person. Preregistration requested at 662–0798.
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Holiday Pop-up Shop: Bryant Community Center.
Sale of handmade arts and crafts from members of the Bryant community. 2–6 p.m., 3 W Eden Ct. ksteward@canwashtenaw.org, 821–8886.
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Letterpress Lab: Ann Arbor District Library.
Dec. 3 & 8 (different times). All adults invited to learn the basics of letterpress printing using vintage handset type. The program begins with a safety & equipment orientation. 2–4 p.m. (Sat.) & 5:30–7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), AADL Downtown Secret Lab. Free. 327–4200.
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“Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus”: Saline Area Players.
Dec. 1–4. Debra Nichols directs local actors in North Carolina playwright Jamie Gorski’s recent heartwarming play based on the famous 1897 newspaper editorial answering an 8-year-old’s question. 7 p.m. (Thurs. & Fri.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), The 5th Corner, 211 Willis Rd., Saline. $10 in advance & at the door (3 and under free). Venue has some stairs; masks recommended. SalineAreaPlayers.org. 730–1055.
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Flexing Paper Sharks: AADL Pittsfield.
Dec. 3 (3–4 p.m.): Kids ages 5-10 invited to create and decorate fun, ferocious, and flexible paper sharks that can wiggle back and forth.
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John U. Bacon: Schuler Books (formerly Nicola’s).
This award-winning local sports journalist discusses The Greatest Comeback: How Team Canada Fought Back, Took the Summit Series, and Reinvented Hockey, his new book about a 1972 showdown between the Canadian and Soviet national hockey teams. Signing. 3 p.m. Schuler Books, 2513 Jackson Rd., Westgate shopping center. Free. Preregistration required at JohnUBacon.eventbrite.com. Free. 662–0600.
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Pittsfield Open Band: Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance.
Dec. 3 & 17. Jam sessions open to all interested musicians to work on jigs, reels, and waltzes to have fun, learn tunes, and develop contra dance musician skills. Bring the Ruffwater Fakebook, the Portland Collection, and waltz books if you have them. 3–5:30 p.m., Pittsfield Union Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Mask and proof of vaccination required. Free. 709–8748, aactmad.org.
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“I Heard the Bells”: Fathom Events.
Fathom Events. 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $11.50–$12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomevents.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter), & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), different times.
Dec. 1-4: (Joshua Enck, 2022). Drama chronicling Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s composition of the beloved Christmas carol “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” 7 p.m. (Thurs. & Fri.) & 4 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.).
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Lantern Walk: Tinkergarten.
A walk with homemade lanterns to celebrate winter’s darkness. Bring your own lantern; lights provided. 4 p.m., County Farm Park, 2230 Platt Rd. Preregistration required (and more information) at bit.ly/tinkergarten-lantern.
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Lantern Walk: Tinkergarten.
A walk with homemade lanterns to celebrate winter’s darkness. 4 p.m., County Farm Park, 2230 Platt Rd. Free. Preregistration required at bit.ly/tinkergarten-lantern.
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“Tree Lighting Ceremony and Glow Hike”: Hudson Mills Metropark.
All ages invited to watch the tree lighting (5:45 p.m.), then hike the nature trail while wearing, if you like, glowing apparel provided by the organizers. The trail ends at the amphitheater with a fire, hot cocoa, and campfire treats. 5:30–7:30 p.m., Hudson Mills Activity Center, 8801 North Territorial Rd., Dexter. $5 (adult), $3 (child), free (under 2). $5, preregistration required by 4 p.m. the day before the program. 426–8211.
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39th Annual Dinner Auction: Father Gabriel Richard High School Annual Superauction.
Cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, dinner, and live and silent auctions of donated goods and services, including trips, jewelry, gift baskets, and much more. Also, Michigan Stadium field access and VIP locker room tours ($100). Proceeds benefit the school. 5:30 p.m., Michigan Stadium Jack Roth Suite. $150. Preregistration required. 662–0496.
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47th Annual Christmas Parade: Saline Area Chamber of Commerce.
This annual parade features floats, bands, baton twirlers, dancers, animals, a hot air balloon, and Santa in his sleigh. 5:30–9 p.m., downtown Saline. Free shuttle available from Busch’s shopping center, 565 E. Michigan Ave. Free. office@salinechamber.org.
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“A Slay Ride to Remember”: Salto Dance Company Winter Showcase.
This U-M student dance troupe performs original pieces in a variety of styles, including classical ballet, jazz, and modern dance. Also, a guest performance by the student dance troupe Léim Irish Dance. 6 p.m., Lydia Mendelssohn Theater. Ticket price TBA, see facebook.com/umichsaltodance.
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“Improv Jam Short & Long Form”: Ann Arbor Civic Theatre Civic Improv.
Dec. 3 & 17. All invited to perform short & long form improv (sign up on arrival), or just to watch. No experience necessary. Followed (8–9:30 p.m.) by “An Evening of Improv” ($15 at the door only) featuring local and regional guest troupes. 6–7:30 p.m. Civic Theatre, 322 W. Ann. Free. CivicImprov@gmail.com, CivicImprov.org.
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The Cookers: Blue LLama Jazz Club
An exciting all-star septet THE COOKERS summon up an aggressive mid ‘60s spirit with a potent collection of expansive post-bop originals marked by all the requisite killer instincts and pyrotechnic playing expected of some of the heaviest hitters on the scene today.
314 S. Main St ,Ann Arbor. Pre-Pay Cover or Dinner+Show at opentable.com $25–100. hello@bluellamaclub.com bluellamaclub.com 734-372-3200.Add this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
Murder Mystery Dinner Show: The Dinner Detective Ann Arbor.
Dec. 3, 10 & 17. Dinner while actors masquerading as fellow diners enact a hilarious murder mystery in which actual audience members may find themselves a prime suspect. 6:30–9 p.m., Ann Arbor Marriott, 1275 S. Huron, Ypsilanti. $65 includes gratuity; preregistration required at TheDinnerDetective.com. (866) 496–0535.
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“An Evening of Holiday Music”: The Willis Patterson Our Own Thing Chorale.
Alice McAllister Tillman directs this popular local choir in Christmas spirituals, works by African American composers, and other holiday favorites. The group's first in-person performance since 2020. 7 p.m., Church of the Good Shepherd, 2145 Independence. Mask required. Free; donations accepted. 769–4437.
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“Moana Jr.”: Saline Varsity Blues.
Dec. 2 & 3. Pat Douglas directs this chorus of singers ages 7-18 in a 60-minute revue based on the 2016 Disney animated film following the heroic adventures of young Moana in the South Pacific village of Motunui. Music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina. 7 p.m., Saline High School, 1300 Campus Pkwy., Saline. Tickets $15 in advance at SalineVarsityBlues.com or at the door.
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“Peter and the Starcatcher”: EMU Theatre Department.
Dec. 2–4 & Dec. 9–11. EMU theater professor Meriah Sage directs EMU students in Rick Elice’s 2009 Tony Award-winning musical. Adapted from Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson’s 2004 novel which gives a backstory to Peter Pan, the narrative follows the nautical adventures of pirates, spies, island natives, crocodiles, and three orphan boys. Aimed at theatergoers age 10 & up. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), EMU Legacy Theater, 124 Judy Sturgis Hill Bldg., Ford St. (off Lowell from Huron River Dr.), Ypsilanti. Tickets $7–$18 in advance at emich.ludus.com & at the door. 487–2282.
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“Tick Tock It’s Pops O’Clock”: Michigan Pops Orchestra.
Luca Antonucci directs this playful 100-member ensemble, the only student-run orchestra on campus, in “Winter” from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, excerpts from John Williams’ Jurassic Park, “Time Warp” from the The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, and more. With vocalists TBA, stage antics, and special effects. 7 p.m., Michigan Theater. Mask required. Tickets $9 (U-M students, $5; public school students, daycare students, and seniors age 65 & over, free) in advance at mutotix.umich.edu and at the door. MichiganPops.org.
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Faye Burns & The Embers: North Star Lounge
Better known as one-half of nationally-touring Americana outfit Escaping Pavement, Faye Burns comes to the solo world with a wealth of newly gleaned life experiences meeting a seasoned-performers past, and channels those two worlds into song. With a voice that can stir the angels and intricate guitar arrangements, Burns moves with ease between unexpected and delightful re-workings of popular songs to emotion-packed originals that can just as easily build into a delightful fervor as bring a tear to your eye. $10 Cover.
301 N. Fifth Ave ,Ann Arbor. northstarloungea2@gmail.comAdd this event to your calendar: Google Calendar | iCal
“Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla”: Fathom Events.
Fathom Events. Special screenings in local theaters with reduced capacity. For updated schedule, see FathomEvents.com/events. $12.50 (unless otherwise noted) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter, 973–8424), Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline, 316–5500).
Nov. 3: (Masaaki Tezuka, 2002). To combat a new Godzilla, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces constructs a cyborg from the original monster’s remains. Screening to celebrate Godzilla Day. 7:15 p.m. (Ann Arbor 20 only).
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Billy Ray Bauer: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase.
Dec. 2 & 3. This dynamic Detroit comic uses a fine repertoire of voices and dialects to deliver funny one-liners and lively stories, often drawn from his experiences raising 4 sons. Preceded by 2 opening acts TBA. Alcohol is served. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $16 reserved seating in advance at etix.com and $18 general admission at the door. 996–9080.
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“Love Actually”: State Theatre.
State Theatre. Film screenings every Tues. & Thurs.–Sun. Mask required. Tickets $10.50 (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, & U.S. veterans, $8:50; MTF members, $8; matinee $7.50) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see MichTheater.org.
Dec. 2 & 3. (Richard Curtis, 2003). Christmas-themed rom-com with an ensemble cast and multiple storylines that was a bigger hit with audiences than with critics. Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley. 9:30 p.m. (Fri.) & 7:30 p.m. (Sat.).
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144th Annual Handel’s Messiah: University Choral Union (University Musical Society).
Dec. 3 & 4. Scott Hanoian directs the 175-voice Choral Union and members of the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra in Handel’s beloved oratorio. The soloists, all established professionals with national or international reputations, are soprano Sherezade Panthaki, tenor Miles Mykkanen, countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, and bass-baritone Enrico Lagasca. The Choral Union Messiah, featuring a thunderous sing-along of the “Hallelujah” Chorus, has been an Ann Arbor tradition ever since organist (and U-M president) Henry Frieze led an impromptu community chorus in the spring of 1879, a performance that led to the formation of both the Choral Union and the UMS. On Saturday only, the concert is preceded at 6:30 p.m. in the lower lobby by “The Society for Disobedient Listeners,” an “anti-lecture” presented by Chicago-based music writer and violist Doyle Armbrust that explores the background of the evening’s program. 8 p.m. (Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Hill Auditorium. Tickets $17–$43 (students, $12–$20) in advance at tickets.ums.org, at Michigan League, by phone, and (if available) at the door. 764–2538.
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1st Saturday Contra Dance: Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance.
Maeve Devlin calls to music by fiddler Luke Panning & guitarist Myron Grant. All dances taught; no partner needed. Bring clean shoes. Preceded at 7 p.m. by a lesson. 7:30–10:30 p.m., Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Mask, proof of vaccination and booster, and release of liability required. Pay what you can ($10 suggested). 274–0773.
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1st Saturday Contra Dance: Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance.
Maeve Devlin calls to music by fiddler Luke Panning & guitarist Myron Grant. All dances taught; no partner needed. Bring clean shoes. Preceded at 7 p.m. by a lesson. 7:30–10:30 p.m., Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Mask, proof of vaccination and booster, and release of liability required. Pay what you can ($10 suggested). 274–0773.
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2022 Art Auction: U-M Prison Creative Arts Project.
Live auction of artwork by incarcerated artists, PCAP curators, U-M faculty members, and other Michigan artists. Proceeds benefit the 27th Annual Exhibition of Artists in Michigan Prisons in spring 2023, where over 700 pieces of art created by incarcerated artists will be exhibited at North Campus for public viewing & purchase. The program begins with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. Also, a virtual silent auction starting Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., online at pcapauction2022.ggo.bid. 7:30 p.m., Michigan Union Courtyard. Free admission. 647–6771.
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44th Annual Boar’s Head Festival: Concordia University.
Dec. 2–4. Elegantly elaborate medieval English pageant celebrating Christ’s birth with a blend of religious pageantry and secular pomp. Maggie Rhodes directs a large cast of Concordia students, faculty, and staff as Beefeaters, hunters, jesters, and other court characters, as well as traditional Christmas shepherds and Magi. With musical narration, congregational singing, and a full orchestra. This hugely popular event sells out in advance every year. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 4 p.m. (Sun.), Concordia University Chapel of the Holy Trinity, 4090 Geddes at Earhart. Tickets $10–$16 in advance at the Kreft Center Box Office and online at cuaa.edu/KreftArts-Tickets. 995–7537.
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Gwen Laster’s New Muse Trio: Kerrytown Concert House.
New York-based violinist Laster, a U-M alum, is joined by cellist Jake Charkey and violist Melanie Dyer to perform music from their 2021 recording Blue Lotus, a curious combination of modernist chamber music and jazz-inspired improvisation. 7:30 p.m., KCH, 415 N. Fourth Ave. Livestream also available. Tickets $29-$50 (students, $19) in advance at kerrytownconcerthouse.com and (if available) at the door. Reservations recommended. 769-2999.
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“AfteRparTy”: U-M Dance Department BFA Concert.
Dec. 1–3. U-M dance seniors Lindsey Kamyszek, Grace Mahalick, Mikaela Meyer, and Payal Parida perform their solo choreography and lead fellow dance majors in their group pieces. 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.), U-M Dance Bldg. Performance Studio Theatre, 1000 Baits Drive. Tickets free, at the door only. 763–5460.
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“First Snow”: Penny Seats Theatre Company.
Every Thurs.–Sun. (except Dec. 10 & 17), Dec. 2–18. Amanda Buchalter directs the premiere of veteran local playwright Joseph Zettelmaier’s comic play about a man who returns to his hometown for a Christmas party after having disappeared for 10 years. Amidst spiked eggnog, snowstorms, and power outages, his old high school friends demand answers. 8 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.). Stone Chalet Inn, 1917 Washtenaw Ave. $15 (seniors 60+ $12). pennyseats.org, 926–5346.
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